BLACK+DECKER Compact Dryer Review | Space-Saving Laundry Solution
Introduction
Tired of lugging laundry to a shared facility or struggling with a bulky, inefficient dryer? Many apartment dwellers and those with limited laundry space face these challenges. The BLACK+DECKER 1.5 Cu. Ft. Compact Vented Dryer offers a practical and portable solution, eliminating the hassle of traditional laundry setups and providing a convenient drying option right where you need it.
Overview
The BLACK+DECKER BCED15 is a compact, front-loading electric dryer designed for apartment living, dorm rooms, or anywhere space is at a premium. Its 1.5 cubic feet capacity offers a surprising drying capability within a small footprint (19.5” x 16.1” x 23.8”). Unlike larger, permanently installed dryers, this model is completely portable, requiring only a standard 120V outlet and a 4” vent duct (not included). It’s ideal for individuals, couples, or small families who value convenience and space efficiency.
Features
Portable Convenience: This dryer’s plug-and-play design requires no hardwiring, allowing you to move it easily. Simply plug into a standard 120V outlet and vent it outdoors—perfect for apartments, dorms, or anywhere you need flexible laundry placement. The portability is especially useful for those with second-floor laundry rooms where venting can be a challenge.
Customizable Drying Programs: Select from four versatile programs: High Temperature Drying for robust fabrics, Sensor Dry for optimal moisture detection and energy savings, Air Dry for delicate items, and Anti-Wrinkle to minimize creases. This flexibility ensures your clothes receive the right care every time, simplifying laundry day.
Stainless Steel Drum & Electronic Controls: The interior stainless steel drum is not only durable but also promotes even heat distribution for consistent drying. The intuitive electronic control panel features a legible display, a programmable timer (20-200 minutes), and a convenient start/pause button—making operation straightforward and user-friendly.
Sensor Dry Technology: This intelligent feature automatically senses moisture levels and adjusts the drying time accordingly. It prevents over-drying, conserving energy and extending the lifespan of your clothes by reducing unnecessary heat exposure.
Double-Layer Lint Filter: This advanced filter system captures lint effectively, contributing to improved drying efficiency and cleaner airflow. It’s also designed for easy cleaning, helping to maintain peak performance and prevent clogging.
Benefits
Space-Saving Design: Ideal for apartments, dorms, RVs, or anywhere space is limited, eliminating the need for costly and complex installations.
Energy Efficient Drying: The Sensor Dry feature minimizes energy consumption by adjusting drying time based on moisture levels, saving you money on utility bills.
Gentle Fabric Care: The specialized drying programs cater to different fabric types, preventing damage and extending the life of your clothing.
Easy to Use & Maintain: The intuitive control panel and easily accessible lint filter simplify operation and maintenance, making laundry day less of a chore.
Portable Convenience: Move the dryer wherever you need it, simplifying laundry routines and offering greater flexibility.
Usages
Small Apartments & Dorms: Its compact size and portability make it perfect for smaller living spaces with limited laundry room options.
Vacation Homes & RVs: Provides a convenient drying solution for vacation homes or RVs where permanent laundry installations aren’t feasible.
Supplemental Dryer: Serves as a secondary dryer for larger households needing to dry smaller loads quickly.
Delicate Fabrics Drying: The Air Dry program provides a gentle drying option for delicate fabrics like lingerie, silk, or lace.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Compact and portable design
- Multiple drying programs for versatile fabric care
- Energy-saving Sensor Dry technology
- Stainless steel drum for durability
- User-friendly electronic control panel
Cons
- Limited 1.5 cu. ft. capacity, suitable for smaller loads
- Requires a 4” vent duct (not included)
- 120V operation may slightly increase energy consumption compared to 240V models
- Drying times can be longer compared to larger dryers
FAQs
Installation Requirements: This dryer requires a standard 120V electrical outlet and a 4” diameter vent duct to the outdoors (venting kit not included). Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent overheating.
Water Usage: As a vented dryer, this model doesn’t use water. All moisture is vented to the exterior.
Stackability: The BLACK+DECKER BCED15 is not designed for stacking. It’s intended to be a standalone, portable unit.
Lint Filter Cleaning: Clean the lint filter after each drying cycle to maintain optimal performance and prevent overheating. The filter is easily accessible and removable.
Typical Cycle Duration: Cycle times vary depending on the selected program and load size, but typically range from 60 to 120 minutes.
Product Specifications
| Configuration | Front Load |
| Capacity | 1.5 Cu. Ft. |
| Fuel Type | Electric |
| Dimensions | 19.5” H x 16.1” W x 23.8” D |
| Energy Star Rating | Not Rated |
| Number of Cycles | 4 (High Temperature, Sensor Dry, Air Dry, Anti-Wrinkle) |
| Max Spin Speed | N/A (Vented Dryer) |
| Drying Technology | Vented |
| Smart Connectivity | No |
| Warranty | 1 Year Manufacturer |
Ratings
| Cleaning/Drying Power | 4.2 |
| Efficiency | 4.0 |
| Noise Level | 4.5 |
| Build Quality | 4.3 |
Recommendation
The BLACK+DECKER 1.5 Cu. Ft. Compact Dryer is an excellent choice for apartment dwellers, students, or anyone with limited space who needs a convenient and affordable drying solution. While its capacity is smaller than full-size dryers, the Sensor Dry technology and multiple programs make it surprisingly versatile. For those needing larger capacity or advanced features like steam cycles, a full-size model might be preferable.
Conclusion
The BLACK+DECKER 1.5 Cu. Ft. Compact Vented Dryer delivers on its promise of a space-saving and convenient laundry solution. While its smaller capacity requires careful load management, the versatility of its drying programs and the ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for those with limited space or seeking a portable drying option. Its affordability and simple operation ensure long-term value and a simplified laundry routine.
